Motorists Urged To Use Caution As Schools Open Across The State

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August 23, 2005

Charleston, W.Va. - With schools across the state scheduled to open this week, the West Virginia Board of Education and the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) would like to remind motorists to exercise extra caution. West Virginia transports more than 224,000 students using approximately 3,700 buses.

“We ask motorists to be extremely cautious and to be aware that buses will be loading and unloading students,” said State Superintendent Steve Paine. “School buses transport West Virginia’s most precious cargo – our children.”

West Virginia state law requires motorists to stop when buses are loading and unloading students.

“Statistics compiled by the Kansas Department of Education indicate that most injuries and fatalities occur at the bus stop,” said Ben Shew, Executive Director for the WVDE Office of School Transportation. “Children should be taught to stay clear of the roadways and to use caution while waiting at the bus stop. Ultimately though, it is our responsibility as parents, students, bus operators, motorists and school administrators to provide a safe ride for our children.”

For more information about school transportation, contact the Office of School of Transportation at (304) 558-2711.